LATEST NEWS
For previous news articles see the monthly archive at the foot of this page.

We have also noted that a number of visitors to the site are happy to lift content and reproduce it elsewhere - we do not mind this happening however if you do so then please have the decency to credit the source.
'Player of the Year' aftermath 30th April 2006
Jim Thomson and Paul Burns more-or-less scooped the pool in the Travel Club's annual awards held last night with both of them lifting two trophies apiece. Ross Corbett and Pam Davers once again acted as M.C.'s and welcomed all present. After the awards ceremony they bade a fond farewell to the 'Big Yin', Brian Reid and the 'Wee Yin', Brian McLaughlin who were both leaving the club. This was greeted by a big cheer and a huge round of applause.

In his speech the Chairman joked, "Our manager thought I was going to buy him a Ferrari. Well Ian, I tried every garage and car showroom in and around our area. They had them in black, white, green and blue but alas not one in red--the colour you requested." But on a more serious note he praised the players, the manager and the fans for helping the club achieve 'Mission Impossible'.

When he took to the stage Ian McCall confessed that although he'd taken Dundee United to fifth spot in the Premier League, won the First Division Championship with Falkirk and saved Airdrie from virtual extinction, helping Queens remain in Division One was his greatest achievement of all. Said the manager, "Standing in that rickety old grandstand at Brechin last Saturday thanking the fans for all their support must rate as my proudest moment in football. Being a Dumfries boy it meant so much to me." He then led the assembled company in a couple of choruses of 'We are the Queen, the Queen of the South'.

Bill Goldie
Passport woe for Andy 30th April 2006
Spare a thought for poor Andy Aitken!. When his team-mates jet off to Barcelona on Friday for a four day break he will be at home cursing his luck. Said the gutted defender, "I thought I had nothing to do but go to the drawer and look out my passport. But when I found it I couldn't believe my eyes!. It was a month out of date. There was no way I could get it renewed in such a short space of time so that was that. But it's my own fault. So while the other player are soaking up the sun in the Catalan capital Andy will be stuck at home in Annan.

Bill Goldie
Annan Tournament 30th April 2006
After a break of three years Queens will again be competing in the annual Annan Tournament in pre-season. Apart from ourselves and the hosts themselves, Annan Athletic, two other yet unnamed sides will take part. It will take place on the 15th and 16th of July.

Bill Goldie
Chairman's message 30th April 2006
Another season rolls to a close today--at least for us. It proved an eventful one and a real 'roller-coaster' ride. Some teams have still to compete in the play-offs but, thank goodness, we've been spared all that. At the end of October we were stuck at the foot of the table with only one win and seven points and the decision was taken to dispose of the services of our then manager, Iain Scott. In November we brought in Ian McCall and it's been a decision I've never regretted. Our fortunes didn't exactly change overnight and come New Year we were still second bottom with only nine points, 12 behind Stranraer the team above us. But come the January 'Window' Ian managed to get new players in and that made all the difference.

In our last 12 games we have only lost once and collected 23 points into the bargain and the draw at Brechin on Saturday ensured us a First Division place for a fifth consecitive season. Ian has done a marvellous job for us and has achieved 'Mission Impossible'. It would have been nice to have won at Glebe Park especially for our fans but a draw was sufficient. We had about 450 supporters up, many of them in fancy dress, and I'm very disappointed that they weren't featured on 'Scotsport' on Sunday as they made it a colourful occasion. And what a welcome we got when the team coach arrived back at Palmerston. There were hundreds of fans in the car park to greet us, still all dressed up. I'm was sorry I couldn't join them for a drink but it had been a long stressful day and I was ready for bed by then. However, I'm glad that one or two of the players joined them to celebrate.

Now we know how we're placed next season, the Board have decided that league admission charges will go up from £12 to £14, but concessions for senior citizens will remain the same at £6. We have been charging the minimum allowed for Division One for the past two years but we must now move with the times. However, we have decided that admission for juveniles will be reduced from £6 to £3 or, if they wish to join the Junior Blues, it will now be only £18 per season. They are our fans of the future so we must look after them. Full details appear in the supplement which is included in this programme.

Today we take on Dundee in our final match of the season. They haven't had their sorrows to seek in recent weeks but they are a 'big club' and I'm sure their fortunes will soon take a turn for the better. We have two special guests joining us in the Boardroom this afternoon, Mrs McCall (our manager's mother) and her sister. So I'm sure Ian will be on his best behaviour with these ladies to keep an eye on him. A warm welcome also to our sponsors and match-day mascots and may I take this chance to thank all the other sponsors who have supported us throughout the past season.

While on the subject, letters are now out for the annual shirt sponsorship draw which takes place on the 25th of May. The winner will have their name emblazoned on the team shirts next season and any one else interested in entering should contact our commercial team of Ian and Margaret Heuchan. And finally, we bid a fond farewell to Vi who is retiring in the close season. Along with Doreen she has worked for many years in the kitchen and we'll be making a small presentation to her just prior to kick-off. Enjoy the game!.

David Rae

From official programme 29-04-06


Bill Goldie
'Player of the Year' Awards 29th April 2006
The Queen of the South Travel Club's annual Social and 'Player of the Year' awards were held in the Labour Club, Dumfries tonight and it was a 'sell-out'.

Winners were:

Player of the Year--1, Jim Thomson; 2, Stuart Lovell; 3, Paul Burns.

Junior member's Player of the Year--1, Jim Thomson; 2, Stuart Lovell; 3, Paul Burns.

Young Player of the Year--1, Paul Burns; 2, Willie Gibson; 3 (equal), Michael Mullen and Graham Weir.

Away Day Player of the Year--1, Paul Burns; 2, Jim Thomson; 3 (equal), Richie Barnard and Tommy English.

Goal of the Season--1, Gary Wood (Dundee away); 2, Derek Lyle (Ross County home); 3, Michael Mullen (Dundee away).

Rear of the Year--1, Andy Aitken; 2, Andy Thomson; 3, Jim Thomson.

For Jim Thomson it was the second year in succession that he'd won the main award and the third time in his Palmerston career.

Bill Goldie
Signing talks 29th April 2006
Ian McCall revealed this afternoon that Andy Thomson had been re-signed for another year, he also stated that he is in talks with Stuart Lovell and Sean O'Connor with a view to signing new contracts.

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 29th April 2006
A disappointing end to the season for Queens this afternoon as they crashed 3-1 to an impressive Dundee side. It was our first home defeat since we lost to Ross County back in November but still a bit of a let down for the 2,624 who had turned up to cheer them on. All the damage was done in a four minute spell midway through the first half when the visitors netted all three of their goals and although Queens pulled one back in the second half they never really looked like closing the gap any further.

Ian McCall took full responsibility for the defeat and admitted, "I was the one to blame, I picked the team and since it was the last game I tried something a bit different this afternoon, it didn't work and in hindsight maybe I shouldn't have done it. We changed it back to normal at half-time but by then it was too late. I apologise to the Queens fans who came out in good numbers today and as manager I feel I let them down. But all credit to Dundee who were brilliant in that first half and deserved to win. They were in all white today and for the first forty five minutes played like Real Madrid but I'm still very proud of my players and what they have achieved this season and I'd like to take this opportunity to wish Gretna all the best in the Scottish Cup Final."

Fond Farewell
Brian Reid made a fond farewell to the fans at the end of the game after being named as sponsors man of the match, said the 'big man', "I'd like to thank the club and the fans who have been good to me, I've thoroughly enjoyed my four seasons at Palmerston but all good things must come to an end. I'm still hoping to carry on playing but perhaps for a club nearer home. However I'll be looking for the Queens results and I'll get along to watch them any time I can. I was proud to get the sponsors man of the match award this afternoon, although I'm well aware it was for sentimental reasons.

Others who will be leaving are, Brian McLaughlin, Colin Scott, Stuart Hill, Chris Carr and Richie Maxwell.

Bill Goldie
Old Players in Town 28th April 2006
Of interest to many of our fans who remember the 1960's will be that George Siddle and Michael Barker will be at the game on Saturday. Both have been featured in the programme this season and both still follow the club, albeit from the north-east.

They will be meeting up with Allan Ball and Billy Collings. George is on the right of the photo. They signed for Queens in the late 60s when the typical line-up was:

Ball, Kerr, Barker, Collings, Siddle, McChesney, Davison, Jackson, Dick, Law and Mitchell.

The majority of players from that era name Michael as the greatest ever Queens player - some accolade!

Incidentally, they both also played for Bishop Auckland under Lawrie McMenemy

Colin Rutherford
Final match 27th April 2006
Queens have nothing to play for but pride when they face Dundee at Palmerston on Saturday in the last game of the season but Ian McCall insists, "I still want a win to finish the season on a high. I'm looking for a big crowd for it's our final match and our fans will want something to celebrate. We're unbeaten in our last six games and I aim to make it seven for I believe it's 12 years since a Queens' team achieved that.

"Jim Thomson will miss out again as he's still suspended and apart from that our only doubt is Sean O'Connor. The big man has a thigh injury and we certainly won't risk anything at this stage of the season.

"I was reading the Chairman's remarks in the national press last week when I noticed my name linked with a Ferrari. My heart skipped a beat for I thought at first that he was going to buy me one for keeping us in the First Division. Unfortunately it wasn't the case but, Chairman, if you read this my favourite colour is red."

Bill Goldie
Programme Feature 27th April 2006
In this weeks programme in colour are photo's from the "Great Escape" featuring the "Bowsers", the "Wedding", "Pantomime Coo", "Sheep Heids", "Dalmations", "Lady, Beach Bum" etc.

BLW - QoS Prog.
Viva España 27th April 2006
Queens' players are off for a four day holiday to 'sunny, sunny Spain' next Friday as a 'thank-you' for retaining our First Division status. About 20 of them are jetting out along with manager, Ian McCall, who said, "It was actually arranged nearly four months ago when we trailed Stranraer by 12 points. I've set up a couple of events in the bar in Barcelona which I co-own to keep them amused. I hope they all enjoy it!."

Bill Goldie
Shop special deals 26th April 2006
The Club Shop at Palmerston will be having a massive end of season clearance sale on Saturday with all of this season's remaining replica tops being offered for just £10 - there is mainly only childrens sizes left. Also on offer will be any other clothing items from this season's stock - prices can be discussed with the staff on hand on Saturday.

There will also be a brand new item on sale on Saturday, it is a keyring with a Queen of the South shopping trolley token attached. This will ensure that you always have the necessary token to release a trolley without having to make sure you have a £1 coin with you before you shop. At only £2 each they are great value and are sure to sell quickly - the Shop will be open form 1.00pm on Saturday.
Reserves runners-up 25th April 2006
Queens reserves great run came to an end at Palmerston tonight when they went down 1-0 to Partick Thistle. The only goal of the game came in the 57th minute, and with Gretna drawing with St Mirren earlier in the afternoon Queens had to be content with a runners-up place in the Reserve League West. Our south-west neighbours took the title with a game in hand.

Bill Goldie
Juveniles half price on Saturday 25th April 2006
The club has announced that all juveniles will be admitted for only £3 for the final match of the season at Palmerston on Saturday.

Bill Goldie
Manager's plea to fans 25th April 2006
Ian McCall today pleaded for all Queens' fans to get along to Palmerston on Saturday for the last game of the season. Said the manager, "I'd love to see between three or four thousand there for it would help me immensely to convince our two loan players, and even the likes of Sean O'Connor, that they have a bright future here. Graham Weir is out of contract at Tynecastle at the end of the season and I'd like to get both him and Ryan McStay to sign. Sean O'Connor is another who has been impressive since his return and his knee is holding up well. So, a big turnout against Dundee would help my case in persuading them that 'Palmerston is the place to be'.

The gaffer gives out some instructions
"But to be fair our fans have been outstanding this season, particularly over the last three months, and myself and all the players really appreciate their magnificent support. However, if all of you could bring just one friend along on Saturday that would really swell the gate and help us end the season on a real high. Having said that I know that the fans in turn would also like to thank the players for their tremendous effort in retaining a First Division place and many of them will get the opportunity to do so at the annual 'Player of the Year' awards on Saturday night.

Superb fans
"We've only lost one of our last 12 matches and have been the form side in the league since the turn of the year. And our Reserves have also done us proud having won their last eight games and if they win against Partick Thistle tonight they still have a glimmer of hope in pipping Gretna for the Reserve Championship."

Asked how he felt now that it was 'mission accomplished' he stressed, "A mixture of relief and happiness, but I couldn't have done it without the backing of the Chairman, the Board, the staff, the players and of course, the support of the fans. No way was it a 'one-man' job--it was a real team effort from all concerned.

"When I was first approached about the manager's job at Palmerston I was quite excited as Queen of the South were my club!. The club I had supported as a boy!. I'd had seven good years in management and six bad months at Tannadice but Queen of the South were the only 'part time' club I would ever have considered joining. When I first arrived the spirit was very low, especially away from home, and my first task in the dressing room was to get rid of the negative attitude. But it didn't happen overnight and one of our biggest blows early on was losing 3-2 at home to Ross County--a match we should have won about 4-1. Another disappointment was losing to Stranraer at New Year which we didn't deserve, but our worst performance of all was up at Airdrie when we went down 4-0--we were all over the place that afternoon.

"However, at long last things began to change for the better and we gave a fighting performance in the cup replay at Hamilton before losing out in extra time. But the real turning point for me was at the end of January when we beat Airdrie 2-0 at home and in our next match came from behind to win our first away game of the season, 3-2 at Dens Park. We followed that up with a home win over Clyde and two weeks later defeated Stranraer 1-0 at Palmerston.

"That proved to be a massive result, for had we lost we would have trailed them by five points but as it turned out it put us one point ahead of them instead. After that there were a lot of negatives coming out of Stair Park and nothing but positive talk from Palmerston. I don't think they ever recovered from that result and we proceeded to go unbeaten in our next five fixtures and pick up nine points to ensure survival."

Of the seven players who came in during January who has really excelled themselves we asked Ian. "Certainly Andy Aitken and Graham Weir but they've all done well in their own way" he enthused. "Take Michael Mullen for instance. He came on three times as a substitute against Airdrie, Dundee and Clyde and his contribution helped win all three games. Considering he was playing in the Ayrshire Amateur League before that, it was remarkable." The manager also conceded that, "Ryan McStay had laid on some vital goals, Andy Thomson had netted three valuable counters as we knew he would, Sean O'Connor is an extraordinary player and a real handful for defences. Unfortunately Shaun Dillon picked up an injury and hasn't been able to show his true form yet."

How many players do you intend bringing for next season was our next question. "It all depends if we want a side capable of challenging for promotion or one that's content to finish midway in the table" he replied. "Ideally six or seven perhaps. Maybe another keeper, two centre backs, another full back, two more midfielders and a new striker. But it's all down to budget and who's going out.
"At present we have three players Andy Aitken, Willie Gibson and Paul Burns signed through to 2008; nine signed to May 2007, although they all won't necessarily be staying on and six whose contracts expire at the end of this season. Brian Reid, Brian McLaughlin and Chris Carr have already been told they'll be moving on but I've not quite made my mind up yet on Stuart Hill."

No matter what happens on Saturday, Ian McCall deserves a lot of credit at what he's already achieved and very few at Palmerston can disagree with that.

Bill Goldie

The fans salute Ian for a job well done
Reserves make it eight in a row 24th April 2006
Queen of the South reserves made it eight wins in a row with a 1-0 victory over St Mirren at Palmerston tonight. The only goal of the game came in the 25th minute - a flash of genius from Willie Gibson saw him play the ball onto Paul Burns and an inch perfect cut back from the goal line was hammered home by Michael Mullen. St Mirren upped the pace in the second half and Queens had a lucky let off when a shot came back off the upright but they held on to win.

Team; Scott, Campbell, Whorlow, Dillon, Reid, J Thomson, Burns, Robertson, Mullen, McLaughlin and Gibson.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 24th April 2006
Goalscorer Sean O'Connor took the man of the match award for his performance on Saturday. Second went to Stuart Lovell with Graham Weir third.

The player of the season league table has been updated and all of the individual scores added to the latest match report. Thanks for voting.
A proud mother speaks 24th April 2006
A proud mother spoke of her admiration for her son in an exclusive interview with the 'Website' yesterday. After it had all 'sunk in' that Queens had actually done the 'impossible' at Brechin on Saturday and secured a First Division place next season, Emma McCall, the manager's mum said, "I'm very proud at what Ian has achieved considering the position the club were in when he took over. He always was an avid Queen of the South fan, even as a youngster, and used to go to all the games with his dad. I only wish Walter was still with us today for he would have been so proud of him as well. Later he would talk about players like Tommy O'Hara and Jim Donald, who were his boyhood idols, but I never thought at that time he would go on to become manager at Palmerston. I remember he once played a trial for them many years ago but it never went any further than that.

"I go to most of Queens' home games with my sister and I enjoy watching them, particularly in the past couple of months when they've done so well. My other two sons are ardent fans as well. Michael, an accountant, stays in Aberdeen and doesn't get to many matches, but he did manage down to Brechin on Saturday as it wasn't too far away. He's just back from a holiday in Florida and has brought me a nice vase back. He's passed it on to Ian to bring down to me tonight. I hope he doesn't break it!.

"My other son, Gordon, is now in Largs but works as a P.E. teacher in Glasgow. I phoned both of them on Saturday night after the game and, like myself, were absolutely delighted. Ian himself phoned me from the team bus and he was very excited as well.

"It's great for the town of Dumfries to have a team playing at a high level. I'm not actually from the town myself, I'm an Ayrshire lass, and Walter hailed from Wigtownshire. However, we'd stayed in Dumfries for so long we considered ourselves naturalised Doonhamers". Mrs McCall admits that she played a part in bringing Ian to Palmerston and added, "I was reading all about it in the local papers how Queens were looking for a new manager and mentioned it to Ian. From there it just snowballed and a few weeks later he was in the 'hot-seat' at Palmerston.

"I'm so happy he's been a success and also, from a purely selfish point of view, I get to see a lot more of him now as he stays over on Monday and Thursday nights when he's down in Dumfries for training. But that's a mother for you, isn't it!. I'll be at Palmerston again on Saturday to cheer them on in the last match and I'm hoping for another good result."

Bill Goldie
Two Reserve Matches 23rd April 2006
Don't forget, Queens have their last two reserve matches this week. On Monday night they meet St Mirren and on Tuesday evening they play Partick Thistle. Both games are at Palmerston and are scheduled to kick off at 7.30 pm.

Bill Goldie
Videos and photo's 23rd April 2006
We have now added some photo's and videos from yesterday to the match report page.
Travel Club Update 23rd April 2006
Man of the match over all three travel club buses was; 1st Sean O'Connor, 2nd Paul Burns, 3rd Stuart Lovell.

The committee of the travel club would like to thank the Springfield House Hotel Brechin and the Palmerston Lounge Bar for their excellent hospitality yesterday.

Ross Corbett
What a welcome 23rd April 2006
What a welcome back the Queens' official bus received when it arrived back at Palmerston last night. About 200 fans--most of them still in their fancy dress--cheered the coach as it entered the car park which was thronged with convicts, clowns, army generals and everything else imaginable. Unfortunately, most of the players had disembarked in the central belt but Andy Aitken, Willie Gibson, physio Kenny Crichton and our likeable young kit-man, James Baty went into the lounge bar to join the supporters in their celebrations.

On it's way home the coach had stopped for an hour at the Swallow Hotel in Dundee where the chairman treated everyone to a drink to celebrate our survival and, although we only drew, a good time was had by all after one of the greatest come-backs in the club's 87 year's history.

Bill Goldie
Stevie Wonder 23rd April 2006
Good to see veteran striker and ex-Queens' favourite, Stevie Mallan, still hitting the headlines. In the semi-final of the Scottish Junior Cup at Firhill on Friday evening Stevie headed home the all-important winner in extra time to give his side, Auchinleck Talbot, a 2-1 victory over holders Tayport and earn them a cup-final place against Bathgate back at Firhill next month. In his time at Palmerston, Stevie made 265 appearances and was leading scorer two years running--1996 and 1997.

Bill Goldie
Connections 22nd April 2006
Due to connection problems we're afraid that we will not be able to bring you any video clips from today's game until tomorrow evening. We do however have some great shots from today so please be sure to check back tomorrow.
Match reaction 22nd April 2006
A pre-match viewing of the hit movie King Kong on the team coach en-route to the match put Queens players in a fighting mood for today's match at Brechin. A hard bumpy pitch which wasn't conducive to good football saw them fight out a 1-1 draw and that was enough to keep them in Division One for a fifth consecutive season.

It wasn't a classic by any means but a brilliant headed goal by Sean O'Connor midway through the first half put us ahead and sent the 400+ fans, many of them in fancy dress into raptures. Brechin did snatch an equaliser late in the game and that put us under a bit of pressure but when news filtered through that St Mirren had beaten Stranraer the fans started all over again, celebrating long after the final whistle.

Naturally Ian McCall was a happy man and again paid tribute to the supporters. Said the manager, "They've been superb all along and today I was creased with laughter at some of the fancy dress - particularly those in Steve Bowey masks. It wasn't pretty to watch but the park left a lot to be desired. We were in control in the early stages but they came back at us in the second half and all in all a draw was perhaps a fair result and it was a tremendous free kick from Stuart Callaghan that earned them it.

"It was great to see Sean O'Connor get on the scoresheet - it was a super header and a great ball in from Ryan McStay. Sean took a real bang on the knee but played on and I was glad to see that - he can be a real handful for any defence". Asked if he ever felt we were destined for relegation when 12 points behind he admitted, "At times I had my doubts but when the new players came in January it lifted the spirits of those already here and after that they just gelled. And that was a great sense of relief for me. It was a great achievement and up there with helping Airdrieonians stay in the first division back in 2002. If that hadn't happened there would be no Airdrie United today. But a lot of credit must go to the players, our fans and the board of directors for without them it couldn't have happened. The first thing I did when I got back on the team coach was phone my Mum in Dumfries who was 'high as a kite'".

Sean O'Connor dedicated his goal to physio Kenny Crichton, "Without all of the help I've had from Kenny I wouldn't have been fit to play today, it was great to score again for Queens and at such a crucial time. My thanks must also go to all the Queens fans who have stood by me and also to my girlfriend Sarah for all her backing through the bad times".

Bill Goldie
Travel Club Update 21st April 2006
Brechin fancy dress
Fancy dress update for tomorrow at Brechin there will be two prizes for each Doonhamers travel club bus (adult and child). Also thanks to Kenny Crichton for arranging an adult and a junior signed top. These will be presented at half time by Jim Thomson this competition is open to all Queens fans - anyone wishing to enter must be at the new stand at half-time to be judged.

Would everyone travelling on the Doonhamers travel club buses to Brechin please note that no one will be permitted on the buses until the committee members in charge of that bus have arrived.

Ross Corbett
Shirt Sponsorship Draw 20th April 2006
The Shirt Sponsorship Draw letters have been sent out this week and Queens are hoping that it will be another record breaking year for entrants. The value of the prize this season has been put at £80,000 which for an entry fee of just £350 must surely be a bargain, particularly when you consider that every entrant will receive a free season ticket.

We are looking for as many entrants as possible so if you think that your employer or even you yourself would like to enter then you can print off the online form via this link Draw Form, fill it in and post it to Palmerston with the appropriate remittance.

You can download the entire sponsorship pack by clicking on this link Sponsorship pack but you will need Adobe Acrobat to read the file.
Team News 20th April 2006
Apart from Jim Thomson who starts a two match suspension Queens have a full squad available for Saturday's trip to Brechin. However big Jim has no intention of missing the game and says he'll be up there at Glebe Park to cheer the lads on.

Bill Goldie
Call to the fans 20th April 2006
Calling all Queens fans - remember it is fancy dress day at Brechin on Saturday. Even if you only put on an "Irish Jig", try and get into the spirit of things. The Angus town is approximately 170 miles from Dumfries - allow yourself about 3.5 hours by car.

We will be taking photos of those that appear in fancy dress on Saturday and you may see yourself featured in the final programme of the season the following week - look out for the camera!

Bruce Wright - QoS Programme
Reserve Fixtures 20th April 2006
Queens' reserves will complete their league programme next week with home games against St Mirren on Monday night and Partick Thistle on Tuesday evening.

Bill Goldie
Travel Club Update 20th April 2006
Would everyone travelling on Doonhamers Travel Club buses to Brechin please note no alcohol is permitted on the buses.

Brechin fancy dress
The committee have decided to donate a prize for adults and juniors for all three buses on Saturday for the best fancy dress.

The Official Queen of the South end of season dance:
There are still a few tickets left which can be bought from Iain Joiner McCleod, Jim McCormick or Ross Corbett on Saturday at Brechin prices are: Members - adults £5, juniors £2 and Non-members - adults £10, juniors £4. The dance will take place on 29th April at the Dumfries Labour Club, Lochside Road Dumfries from 8pm. There will be presentations for player and young player of the year, away day player of the year and goal of the season as well as a band, buffet, raffle and an auction.

Would all readers of the Daily Record/Sunday Mail please keep collecting the 'Kits for Kids' tokens as we need one final effort for the last two weeks to ensure Queens community partners Lochar Thistle youths AFC receive the maximum donation. The tokens can be handed into the Club Shop, Trust stall or handed or posted to Ross Corbett, 27 Loch Road, Hardthorn, Dumfries, DG2 9JE.

Ross Corbett
'Let's win it for the fans' 19th April 2006
Ian McCall wants a win at Brechin on Saturday, and he wants it for the fans. Said the manager, "The support's been fabulous since I arrived, particularly those fans who travel to all the away games at far-flung outposts like Dingwall. But I have to say it was tremendous at Palmerston on Saturday as well. I'm looking for three points at Glebe Park which would ensure our place in Division One next season, irrespective of how Stranraer fare against St Mirren.

"I know that St Mirren have now clinched the Championship and a place in the Premier League next season and congratulations to them. Some say they may be more 'laid back' now the pressure's off but knowing Gus McPherson I can't see him letting that happen. Naturally they won't be quite so focussed but I have no control over what happens at Stair Park. However, I do have a big say in what happens up at Brechin and that remains my priority. Until we cross that finishing line I'll repeat what I've been saying for the past month,'we've achieved nothing yet'.

"We've a lot of fans travelling up on Saturday and I don't want to let them down. I'm told that three buses are already fully booked and as it's our last away game of the season many of these fans are going in fancy dress. It should be a right carnival atmosphere with a lot of singing and shouting and we all want to give them something to celebrate. But we won't be taking anything for granted!. Brechin have a new manager in Michael O'Neill so the players will be well aware that they'll be playing for their futures. So no way will it be easy!. I know Michael well--he's a good friend and was a great player in his heyday and he'll certainly have them 'up for it'.

"Nevertheless, we've only lost once in our last 11 matches and I'd like to finish the season with wins at Brechin and against Dundee. That would see us finish on the 38 point mark and looking back at where we were at New Year, I'm not complaining at that."

Reflecting back to Saturday's victory over St Johnstone Ian conceded, "It turned out to be a real 'battle royal' with nine yellow cards and a sending off. But having watched it closely on video I feel the referee got the controversial decisions right. When they went down to ten men it actually appeared to galvanise the side and any neutral coming in at half time would have found it difficult to decide what team had 11 and what one had 10. I felt sorry for Kevin James when he headed past his own keeper but was still delighted that the ball went into the net. The big man had an outstanding game and I think that was about the only mistake he made.

"Some questioned my decision to take Gary Wood off so early but I had my reasons. Gary had already been shown a yellow card and I could see it was going to turn into a real bruising match and with his record I was afraid he'd end up with another red card. We need him for Saturday with Jim Thomson suspended so I didn't want to tempt fate. Gary played really well and did the job we asked him to do and although he was disappointed he's a professional footballer and understood my reasoning.

"After the game I had a chat with Owen Coyle and we had a laugh and agreed to differ on those 'controversial decisions'. There were no hard feelings--I've known Owen far too long to let things like that affect our friendship. On departure we shook hands and I told him that with St Mirren going up I felt that St Johnstone were favourites for the title next season."

Bill Goldie
Reserves win again 18th April 2006
Queens reserves made it seven wins in a row by defeating Ayr United at Somerset Park tonight. Andy Thomson scored in the tenth minute to put Queens ahead and two more goals from Michael Mullen made it 3-0 at half time. The homesters did net two late in the game but it was too little too late.

Queens next scheduled reserve match is against St Mirren at Palmerston on Monday night.

Bill Goldie
Exclusive 18th April 2006
'Let's win it for the fans' says Ian McCall. See 'Website' tomorrow.
Brave youngsters knocked out 18th April 2006
Queens had to field their youngest ever squad (with an average age of just sixteen and a half) in the Southern Counties Challenge Cup tie against Nithsdale Amateurs at Sanquhar last night. They put up a brave fight and after 90 minutes it was 1-1, but the gallant youngsters lost out 4-3 in a penalty shoot-out. Queens took the lead on the quarter hour mark with Michael Mullen scoring but the homesters equalised six minutes later. With no more goals the game went to 'penalties', but despite leading 3-2 the last two spot-kicks were missed so Nithsdale won through to the next round.

The squad consisted of Mullen, Robertson, Whorlow, Campbell and Baty and the remainder included two 17-year-olds, three 16-year-olds, three 15-year-olds and goalkeeper, Ross Hyslop--at 14, the youngest ever player to turn out for the club in a competitive match.

Bill Goldie

Keeper Ross Hyslop - youngest ever
Photo courtesy Colin Rutherford
Burns the Braveheart 17th April 2006
One of our 'unsung heroes this season has been Paul Burns. A quiet unassuming lad off the park but a real 'braveheart' on it, he 'punches well above his weight' and fears no-one. In recent months he has come up against 'heavyweights' like Bobby Mann, Pat Keogh and even big Kevin James but never shirks a tackle. However, the toughest he's faced is Paul Hartley--now at Hearts. Said Paul, "I came up against him when we played St Johnstone and he was certainly the hardest I've ever met. But, having said that, our own Gary Wood doesn't 'take any prisoners'--I've been up against him a few times in training matches and he's as 'hard as nails'."

Burnsy in action
Football obviously runs in the Burns' family as Paul's great grandfather turned out for Queen's Park, his grandfather was a physio while his father and uncle featured in the amateur ranks and his young brother, James, plays for a local Boys' Club. Paul himself started playing at a very early age for St John's Primary in Cumnock before graduating to St Conval's H.S. and then St Joseph's Secondary in Kilmarnock. He also played at Boys' Club level for several locals sides before ending up at Valspar B.C. From there he was snapped up by Queens as a 16-year-old and signed professional forms two years later.

He was actually born at the maternity hospital in Irvine and the Ayrshire seaside town has proved to be a real breeding ground for young Queens' players with Michael Mullen, Scott Robertson and Gareth Campbell all born there. His first team debut was at Palmerston against Arbroath in March, 2003, which ended in a 3-0 victory but his most memorable match to date was when we beat Caley Thistle at home to go top of the table. Added Paul, "There was over three and a half thousand there that afternoon and the atmosphere was unbelievable. We went a goal behind from a deflection but came storming back to win 3-2. It was a tremendous game.

"Only a few weeks earlier I'd scored my first goal for the big team and that was against another Highland side, Ross County. It was up at Dingwall in the C.I.S. Cup, we won 3-0 and although it was a bit of a fluke I was still really chuffed. Alex Burke scored the other two if I remember right." Another match he recalls well was last season when we beat St Mirren 2-1. He continued," I scored the opener with a header but ended up with cracked ribs. I got the 'Man of the Match' award that day but couldn't even collect it personally as I was on my way to hospital by then."

Acknowledging the fans
However, one of the most important goals he's scored was earlier this season when we beat Airdrie at Palmerston. He confesses, "It came in the last minute to give us a 1-0 win and our first league victory. All the lads piled on top of me to celebrate--it was like being at the bottom of a rugby scrum--I was being crushed and suffocated and was quite frightening. But it was well worth it."

Being the warrior he is Paul has had more than his fair share of injuries for a young player. He had his leg severely punctured by a 'flying stud' against Partick Thistle, broke his nose in a match against Stranraer and he's now recovering from minor surgery on his knee.
But he is first to admit that he owes an awful lot to his family who have always encouraged him and been on hand when he required help and advice and also the senior players at Palmerston like Jim Thomson and Stuart Lovell along with physio, Kenny Crichton, who have guided him on the playing side. One of our brightest prospects for the future, Paul won last season's 'Young Player of the Season' award and must be well in the running again when this year's trophies are handed out at the annual function next Saturday.

He concludes, "Being out injured at this stage of the season is 'pure murder' and I can't wait to get back in action. I'd love to be involved in the last two games but that's up to the manager. We're nearly there now but the gaffer's taking nothing for granted and insists 'we've achieved nothing yet'. My immediate aim is to help Queens retain First Division status for next season but ultimately compete at the highest level possible. Like every young boy Paul has his 'dream' and that's to score the winning goal for Celtic in a Cup Final.

Here's hoping young man!.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 17th April 2006
Goalscorer Graham Weir took the man of the match award for his performance on Saturday. Second went to Stuart Lovell with Sean O'Connor third.

The player of the season league table has been updated and all of the individual scores added to the latest match report. Thanks for voting.
Mixed fortunes for ex-Queens men 16th April 2006
Former Queens' players featured prominently in Scottish football at the weekend in all four divisions and there were mixed fortunes all round. In the Premier League Robbie Neilson helped Hearts to a 2-0 victory over Kilmarnock to retain second place and move five points clear of Rangers. In our own division Andy Goram was on the subs bench for Airdrie who beat Stranraer 3-0 but it was a match Stephen Payne will want to forget as he was responsible for the loss of the opening goal. Elsewhere in the First Division Ross County went down 2-0 at Clyde to drop back to fourth spot in the table and saw a disappointed Alex Burke substituted in the 65th minute.

In Division Two a Gretna side, which included David Mathieson and Derek Townsley, slumped for the second time this season to lowly Forfar, losing 2-1, and it proved a bad day too for Brian McColligan whose new club, Alloa, crashed 3-0 to Peterhead--a defeat which keeps them rooted in bottom place.

However, it turned out a good day for our ex-defender, David Craig, whose late header earned Partick Thistle a vital 2-1 win over Stirling Albion to more-or-less ensure them a 'play-off' spot. Anyone recall big Davie netting a similar late winner for Queens against Partick last season?. That result nevertheless spelt disaster for Stirling boss Allan Moore, another ex-Queens player, as Albion have little chance now to qualify for the 'play-offs'. But it's better news for Morton's Peter Weatherson whose team are now certain to finish runners-up.

Moving on to Division Three where Stenhousemuir player-manager, Des McKeown, watched from the bench as his side lost 2-1 at home to Queen's Park and he must be bitterly disappointed to see Stenny drop from top to third place in a matter of two weeks. Cowdenbeath have now gone top and their 5-0 trouncing of East Stirling came as a result of a 'hat-trick' by Armand One who played for Queens as a 'trialist' in early season.

Mixed fortunes right enough!.

Bill Goldie
Chairman's message 16th April 2006
Although we've only managed draws in our last two matches we have improved our league position and now lead Stranraer by a point going into the last three fixtures. We could well have won both those games, particularly at Airdrie last Saturday when we dominated the entire second half. Nevertheless, the point at New Broomfield was a better point for us than the one picked up by our South West rivals as they had home advantage over Dundee. We now have two of our last three games at Palmerston while Stranraer have two away to Airdrie and Clyde and one at home to champion elects, St Mirren. Hopefully we can make that home advantage count for we haven't lost at Palmerston since November.

Another player reached the 100 game mark in the recent Ross County match, Derek Lyle, and as usual we'll be presenting him with a trophy this afternoon to mark the occasion. And, assuming he plays today, we'll also be handing over a memento to our skipper, Jim Thomson, who reaches the big 250 mark. Congratulations to both of them.

On a sadder note we lost another Queens' fan of long standing two weeks ago with the death of Duncan Paterson. He was one of the founder members of the Sanquhar Q.O.S. Supporters' Club and our condolences go out to his wife and family. Myself and one or two of the players will be attending the Sanquhar branch's 'Player of the Season' awards tonight. We're all looking forward to an enjoyable evening but, alas, it will be dampened somewhat with Duncan's passing.

As you've probably read in the local press Queens have teamed up with the Dunfermline Building Society to launch a new 'Soccer Savers' account. It's unique in that if offers a high interest rate to the account holder and also pays a sum to the club for youth development. This is good news for local football fans and I'm glad it's with a Scottish Building Society.

A new store opened it's doors in Dumfries on Tuesday, T. J. Hughes, and we were invited along to the opening ceremony. Queen of the South are a community club and we endeavour to assist with any such events in the area and I was delighted that Sean O'Connor, Andy Aitken and Paul Burns were all there along with Kenny Crichton and myself to represent Queens.

Today we have St Johnstone back to Palmerston and we welcome to chairman, Geoff Brown, his directors and all their fans. Their manager, Owen Coyle, is well respected and one of the nicest people I've met in football circles. He's also a close friend of Ian McCall, but having said that, we're not expecting any favours this afternoon for Saints themselves are the only side who can pip St Mirren for a Premier League spot although it's a tall order. And finally, a warm welcome to all sponsors and the match-day mascots here today.

David Rae

From Official Programme 15-04-06


Bill Goldie
Prize men 15th April 2006
At tonights Sanquhar Queen of the South Supporters Association awards dance the Player of the Year award for season 2005-06 was presented to Jim Thomson.

Jim also received an award earlier in the day to mark his 250th match in a Queen of the South jersey and Derek Lyle was presented with a trophy to commemorate his 100th start for the club.

Davie Rae presents Jim Thomson with his 250 appearances award whilst Billy Hewitson presents Derek Lyle with his 100 appearances award.

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 15th April 2006
Back in the days of the Wild West the notorious outlaw Jesse James was Mr Bad Guy, but this afternoon at Palmerston another member of the James clan, Kevin James, was Mr Good Guy as far as Queens fans were concerned and the own goal scored fifteen minutes from time handed us a 3-2 victory. However Queens should have had the match won in the first half hour, a penalty from John O'Neill and a brilliant strike from an acute angle by Graham Weir put us into a 2-0 lead. St Johnstone were by then down to ten men and reeling but two goals by the visitors in the space of three minutes saw them go in at the interval level pegging. Then came that headed own goal by St Johnstone's six foot seven giant defender and that proved to be the winner.

With Stranraer losing at Airdrie United we are now four points ahead with two games remaining but Ian McCall scoffed at the idea that it was all over and we were now safe. Said the manager, "There's still six points at stake and Stranraer are quite capable of winning their last two games. Nevertheless we're in a very strong position now and we only have ourselves to blame if we 'threw it away'. As far as today's concerned we should have been about 4-0 up in the first half hour and the match should have been all over as a contest. To me it was a 'stone wall' penalty and the linesman got it spot on. But we relaxed a bit and two moments of daftness saw us go in at the interval level. I told the players to forget the first half and go out and start the second period afresh and we did have two good chances to go ahead again. Then big Kevin handed us a goal on a plate - it's ironic as apart from that he was outstanding, it was a bit nerve racking in the final five minutes but we held out to take the three points against one of the best teams in the league."

Jim Thomson who's possibly played his last game of the season was elated to get a victory on his 250th game for Queens. Joked the skipper, "The lads and I are clubbing together to send big Kevin a magnum of champagne for helping us win today. But seriously St Johnstone are a good side and they're not up there in second top spot for nothing. We haven't had many 'breaks' this season but I think we must have got them all this afternoon. I'm glad for I had a worry at one point that we were going to chuck it all away."

A disenchanted Owen Coyle responded, "I was annoyed at the penalty decision, "I didn't think it was a penalty and the referee obviously thought the same but the linesman stood his ground and put him in a difficult position. The two early decisions - the penalty and then the red card ruined the game but we fought back well to get on level terms. Big Kevin's own goal was a disappointing way to lose a game but congratulations to Queens. We'll take our medicine and head back up the road to Perth and hopefully we'll see them again next season."

Bill Goldie
Team News 13th April 2006
With the exception of Paul Burns, still recovering from 'keyhole surgery' on his knee, Ian McCall reports every other player 'fit and ready to go' for Saturday's match with St Johnstone. Said the manager, "Paul's 'touch and go' but we may not risk him and play him in the reserve game at Ayr on Tuesday night". As expected, it's now been verified that Jim Thomson is eligible to play on Saturday despite his 'booking' at Airdrie, but he will miss the final two games of the season. It will be J.T.'s 250th first team appearance for the club, a great achievement.

Bill Goldie
Sanquhar Mini-bus 13th April 2006
The Queens mini-bus to the Sanquhar QOS Supporters Club presentations will leave the New Bazaar at 7pm on Saturday (15th). There are 3/4 seats left if anyone wants to come along. Davie Rae and some Queens players will be there to represent the club. For bookings phone the Globe Inn boys - Swanee, Bruce or big Gordon Hyslop (youth development coach).

Bruce Wright
Kits for Kids 13th April 2006
Can all Queens fans please if possible keep collecting the Daily Record/Sunday Mail kits for kids tokens there is just over three weeks to go in this promotion and we need as many as possible. The tokens will be donated to Queens community partners Lochar Thistle youths AFC. Tokens can be handed in to the boxes at the Club Shop or the Trust stall at Palmerston or handed to Ross Corbett or posted to Ross Corbett at 27 Loch Road, Hardthorn, Dumfries, DG2 9JE.

Ross Corbett
Travel Club Update 13th April 2006
Tickets for the Doonhamers Travel Club end of season dance will be on sale to non-members on Saturday before and after the St Johnstone game in the Palmerston lounge bar. Tickets are priced at; Members - adults £5, juniors £2; non-members - adults £10, juniors £4. Please see Pam Davers or Iain "Joiner" McLeod. The dance is on the 29th April at 8:00pm in the Lochside Labour Club Lochside Road Dumfries. As usual there are the Trophy presentations, raffle, auction, buffet and a band.

Members are reminded that voting for player of the year and young player of the year starts on Saturday before and after the St Johnstone game please see Pam Davers or Jim McCormick. Also voting for goal of the season please see Ross Corbett. Members can also vote for all of the awards by e-mail quoting name, membership number and your choice of player to ross.corbett@tesco.net.

There are still a few seats left on the third bus to Brechin which leaves at 8:30am from the old Tescos, Lochfield Road picking up at the Lochar Inn and Moffat. Please phone the Travel Club hotline A.S.A.P. to book your seat.

Man of the match on the Airdrie buses was - 1st G Weir, 2nd A Aitken, 3rd S Bowey.

The committee would like to thank the Q bar in Airdrie for their hospitality on Saturday before the match.

Ross Corbett
Raring to go! 12th April 2006
One player who can't wait for Saturday to come is Sean O'Connor--for the big man's itching to start a game and hopes he just might get the chance against St Johnstone. He's already played the whole 90 minutes in the Reserves and has come on as sub in our last two league games and actually turned it around for us up at Airdrie. Speaking to the 'Website' this morning Sean confessed, "I feel I'm more-or-less 'back in the groove' now and I'm raring to go. But I realise it will be a difficult decision for the manager for the team's playing so well just now. The lads have been brilliant and there's a lot of competition for places up front, but I'd like to play as big a part in it as possible.

Back at Palmerston
"My fitness is getting back to where I'd like it to be and that's due so much to our physio, Kenny Crichton. Since my last operation I've been in at Palmerston practically every day--Kenny's been working on my knee and I've been doing a lot of running and extra training. My knee's fine now and I've had no negative reaction whatsoever. I've played in several reserve games and that's been good, but it's no substitute for first team action."

It was John Connolly who brought Sean to Palmerston from Dundee United in March, 2002, for a 'bargain price' of £10,000 and he was to net many important goals for us. That first season he helped Queens win the Second Division Championship and scored one of the goals in the crucial match at Forfar which clinched the title. The following season he was plagued by injury but returned just in time to come on as a sub for the Challenge Cup triumph against Brechin at Broadwood.

Added Sean, "That was an amazing six months which I'll never forget, but it's equally important now for us to remain in the First Division. It's in our own hands but we're all confident we can do it. I owe a lot to John Connolly for bringing me to Queen of the South in the first place and I spent over two happy years at Palmerston. I left to go to Morecambe for two reasons--firstly, for the chance of full-time football and secondly, it was much nearer my home near Wolverhampton. Unfortunately I had a bad time with injuries and never got a real chance to prove myself, but as I've already said, my knee's fine now. Ian McCall took a gamble bringing me back so I'd love to re-pay the faith he had in me".

How do you compare Ian McCall to John Connolly? we asked. "They're both good managers" was his reply. "But totally different in their techniques. However, both have proved to be successful in football and that's what matters most. I'm really glad to be back with Queens again and there's not been an awful lot of changes to the squad since I left. When I was here the last time Alex Burke was my striking partner up front but on Saturday I was alongside Graham Weir when I came on. Both were small in stature but good players. 'Burky' was deadly inside the six yard box and so good when he was 'one-to-one' with the keeper while 'Weiry' is more aggressive and full of running. We've also got Andy Thomson who is very experienced and has an excellent 'football brain'. I thought I'd scored myself on Saturday with that header, but 'Weiry' got a toe to it to help it over the line. But I wasn't too bothered as long as it ended up in the net.

Causing problems for the defence


"I love playing for Queens and I'd like nothing better then to earn a contract next season but it's all down to myself to convince the manager in those last three games. If things work out my girlfriend and I would both like to re-locate to Scotland as she comes from Dundee. But it's early days yet, and we'll just have to be patient and see what transpires.
"Another bonus are the Queens' fans who I have always respected. I wondered how they'd take to me after having left the club but they've been suberb. When I was warming up trackside waiting to come on at the Ross County game they were clapping and chanting my name as I jogged by, and I appreciated that ever so much."

Bill Goldie
Let's stop the Saints 11th April 2006
Queens must stop the 'Saints from Marching on' come Saturday to ensure they stay above Stranraer in the table. But it won't be easy for St Johnstone are playing some of the best football in our division at the moment and have lost only four times away from home all season.

And Ian McCall knows what he's up against and emphasised, "We've a very difficult game in front of us and it will be an extremely hard one to win. But they're all hard come this time of the season so we can't afford to take our foot off the pedal.

"St Johnstone are playing really well just now and they still have a chance of catching St Mirren at the top even though it's a slim one. Their manager, Owen Coyle, is one of my best friends in the world of football, and knowing him he'll have his team fired up and fighting. He's done great since taking over the 'hot seat' at McDiarmid Park and, apart from this Saturday, I wish him every success in the future.

"We've only lost once in our last ten outings and as I requested some weeks ago we've got our home ground back to 'Fortress Palmerston' once again. Our last home defeat was back in November and we've only conceded two goals at home since then. What we do have now is momentum and we'll be going all out to collect full points at the weekend. But it we don't finish above Stranraer all our hard work will have been for nothing.

"Our support up at Airdrie was again fantastic--particularly behind the goal when our equaliser went in. Sometimes I wish I was out there with those fans rather than harnessed to the confines of the technical area. Then I could really vent my feelings.

Bill Goldie
Soccersavings 11th April 2006
Soccer Savings is a new way to save and support your team at the same time.

You benefit from:


* Competitive rate of interest.
* Invest from as little as £1 up to a maximum of £1,000,000.
* Interest is variable, calculated daily and credited to your account annually.
* Instant access to your money. Withdrawalls are normally paid by cheque, but up to £250 in cash, per day can be withdrawn from the account at a branch.
* You'll be given a club branded passbook for your account.

Your club benefits from:

* Support for youth development
* Improvements to stadium and club facilities
* Support towards school visits and community work

Open a Queen of the South Soccersaver at

* Grieve,Grierson,Moodie and Walker,14 Castle St,Dumfries Tel: 01387 266250 (Agent for Dunfermline Building Society)
* Dunfermline Building Society,188 King St, Castle Douglas Tel: 01556 503607

Check your Hotseat card, handed out at the turnstiles at the Stranraer game, and the winning number will be announced at Half Time. Call 0800 612 8000 for more information.

Keep your Hotseat Card and open a Soccersaver Account. The prize at the last home game is £1000 (£100 for non-account holders).

Margaret Heuchan
Reserves win again 10th April 2006
Queens reserves kept their winning run going with a 2-0 victory over Morton at Cappielow tonight. Derek Lyle opened the scoring in thirty minutes when he cracked the ball into the top corner of the net from twelve yards out. And with twenty minutes remaining Queens tied up the points when Scott Robertson scored from the edge of the six yard box - his shot going in off the post.

Bill Goldie
Old friends go 'head to head' 10th April 2006
Saturday's clash with St Johnstone at Palmerston will see two old friends pitting their wits against each other when Owen Coyle meets up again with his mentor, Ian McCall. The two of them have been 'best friends' for many years but that friendship will be set aside for 90 minutes at the weekend as both their clubs have tasks on their hands at different ends of the table.


Speaking to the 'Website' this afternoon the St Johnsone boss acknowledged, "It's an important match for us both. Queens are fighting a battle with Stranraer at the foot of the league to stave off relegation while we're chasing St Mirren at the top. However, I'm realistic enough to realise that the Love Street side need only one win out of three to be champions so 'the ball's firmly in their court'. However, we'll be fighting to the bitter end for football's a funny old game and anything can happen. We'll be coming down to Dumfries looking for a victory--anything less is unacceptable in the position we're in. Both Queens and ourselves are on good runs at present and although they're third bottom they are a much-improved team and I'm expecting a very difficult game.

www.thecourier.co.uk
"I've nothing but respect for Ian McCall and, apart from being an excellent manager, he's one of my best friends. When he was in charge at Airdrie he brought me in from Dunfermline as his player coach and I was also with him at Falkirk and then Dundee United. What happened to him at Tannadice was a shame, for the previous season he'd guided them to third place in the Premier League in very difficult circumstances.

"I learned an awful lot from Ian and I was not one bit surprised that he's turned Queens' fortunes around in the relatively short spell he's been at Palmerston. He's done a terriffic job down there!.

"He's a very positive thinker and gets the best out of his players and I hope he can keep the club in Division One next season. And I think he will!. However, we'll be in opposite dug-outs for a change come Saturday so they'll be no quarter asked and none given. We've both got our jobs to do as managers and mine is to get three points for St Johnstone."

Bill Goldie
JT 250 not out 10th April 2006
If, as expected, Big "J.T." makes his 250th start for Queens on Saturday (before suspension kicks-in) he will become number 24 in the all-time QoS appearance league.

Bruce Wright - QoS Programme
Man of the Match 10th April 2006
Andy Aitken proved once more what as uperb re-signing he was with another man of the match winning performance on Saturday. Second went to Stuart Lovell with Sean O'Connor third.

The player of the season league table has been updated and all of the individual scores added to the latest match report. Thanks for voting.
Suspension coming up for big Jim 9th April 2006
After amazingly surviving since November without a 'booking' the inevitable happened at Airdrie on Saturday when Jim Thomson picked up a yellow card. It means Jim will probably have a two match suspension coming up. However he should be eligible for this week's encounter against St Johnstone (his 250th game) but will miss the final two fixtures of the season.

Bill Goldie
Reserves at Cappilow 9th April 2006
Queens Reserves meet Morton at Cappilow tomorrow night. Kick-off is at 7.30 p.m. The Reserves have had a successful run in recent weeks with five wins in a row, netting six against both Albion Rovers (a) and Stenhousemuir (h). To date they have amassed 19 points from 12 games. After tomorrow they have three fixtures remaining--St Mirren and Partick Thistle at home and Ayr United (away).

Bill Goldie
Match reaction 8th April 2006
Queens inched ever closer to first division survival with a 1-1 draw at Airdrie this afternoon. And it was a fighting second half performance and the smart substitution of Sean O'Connor which earned them the point. It turned out to be a special day for Graham Weir who blasted home the all important equaliser - his first counter for Queens since joining in January.

Ian McCall was actually disappointed at the final result and felt it was two points dropped. Said the manager, "I thought we dominated most of the second half and had them penned in their own half for long periods and we deserved to take more form the game. We conceded a bad goal at a bad time after only six minutes but we should have gone in level at half time. Bowser had the ball in the net just before the interval but the referee disallowed it for a foul on the 'keeper. But I actually didn't see any foul. I was happy for Graham Weir who scored his first goal for the club and he took it very well. It was also good to see three of our new recruits involved in that goal. Big Sean did really well when he came on and I was extremely happy with his contribution as well. Again a big thank you to all our travelling fans, I'm told there were around 350 there and the support you gave us was fantastic - especially when the goal went in."

Graham Weir was also a happy man and delighted to net that elusive first goal. Said Graham, "I feel much better now - I was under a lot of pressure but it's so important when you're a striker to find the net. But we could have taken a lot more form the match particularly in the second half. Big Sean did brilliant when he came on as a sub and both he and Andy Thomson might well have scored to give us the win I thought we deserved."

Bill Goldie
Exclusive 7th April 2006
Exclusive interview with the one and only Kevin (Ted) McMinn - the "Tin Man" in next week's programme.

Bruce Wright - QoS Programme
Sanquhar 7th April 2006
Sanquhar QoS Supporters Club dance and presentation next Saturday - Globe Doonhamers running a mini-bus to it so nice to see co-operation between the fans.

Bruce Wright - QoS Programme
Team News 6th April 2006
Paul Burns will definitely not feature in Saturday's match at Airdrie. The talented young midfielder had minor surgery on his knee at Sheffield today but it's fully expected he'll be OK for next week's home match against St Johnstone. Our only our doubt is Shaun Dillon who is also having trouble with a knee injury but he is listed as 50-50. Everyone else is fine, and even the manager himself is back at his desk again.

Bill Goldie
More hurdles ahead 5th April 2006
Ian McCall is still adamant he'll be taking it 'one game at a time' as Queens approach the final crucial matches in their league campaign. Said the manager, "We've four more hurdles to overcome and we'll face each one of them when they arise. It looks like it could well go to the last game, but we're ahead now so it's in our own hands. Our defence is sound with Jim, Andy and 'Archie' in control and we've only conceded two goals in our last seven games. Due to injuries, illness and suspensions I've had to change the midfield around quite a bit, but up front I'd like to see our recognised strikers hitting the net more often.

"Sean O'Connor came on for the last half hour on Saturday and did well, and he also played for the whole 90 minutes in the reserve match against Stenhousemuir on Monday night. He still needs a couple of more matches to reach full match fitness but he's certainly an unorthodox player--we've no-one else like him in the squad."

Ian was still not back to normal after being hit by a 'bug' which was doing it's rounds so assistant manager Stevie Morrison took charge of proceedings in the early part of the week.

On Saturday Queens face a trip to Airdrie. Although we've beaten them twice at home this season, the last game at New Broomfield is one we'd rather forget as they trounced us 4-0 after some shambolic defending. Said Stevie Morrison, "We were terrible up there in December but it was very much a 'settling in' period for Ian and I. We conceded 12 goals in three games and that's more than we've lost in our last ten matches. We're much stronger at the back now and playing a lot better away from home, so we'll be going to Airdrie in a confident frame of mind."

Bill Goldie
Andy's glad to be back 4th April 2006
While Gretna were running out to face Dundee in the semi-final of the Scottish Cup on Saturday, Andy Aitken was preparing for another bruising bottom-of-the-table battle with Queens against Ross County at Palmerston. But Andy was not at all envious of his former team-mates gracing the hallowed turf of the National Stadium and said, "I was glad to see them reach the final and good luck to them against Hearts. I still keep in touch with quite a few of the lads at Raydale such as Davie Irons, Derek Collins, Ryan McGuffie and of course ex-Queens' man big Derek Townsley, and I was pleased to see 'Degsy' get the 'Man of the Match' award. However, my priority now is helping Queen of the South remain in the First Division and I'm enjoying the challenge.

"It was my decision to return to Palmerston" he added "And I was 'over the moon' when the deal was finally clinched. Rowan wasn't too keen at first but Brooks Mileson stepped in and insisted that if I was wanted to leave, and Queens were keen to sign me, he wouldn't stand in my way and he actually tore up my contract to make it possible. Despite his wealth Brooks is so 'down to earth' and a benefactor who genuinely loves the club. He has brought both success and fame, not only to Gretna, but to the whole of Dumfries and Galloway and everyone down there thinks a lot of him. But all credit to Rowan as well!. He's brought in good players at the right time, during the January 'windows', and they've done the job for him."

Andy freely admits that it was a big mistake leaving Queens in the first place and it might never have happened. He explained, "There was a bit of internal friction between myself and the then manager so I decided it was time to move on. But, as it happened, the manager himself moved to another club a few weeks later and if I'd known that was going to happen I would never had left in the first place.

"Nevertheless, Gretna did offer me good terms and 'full-time' football so I would have been daft to turn it down. All along one of my biggest regrets of my career was not getting the opportunity to play 'full-time'. It almost happened back in 1999 when both Jamie McAllister and David Lilly left Palmerston to sign for Aberdeen. I was all set to join them but there was then a change of manager and the whole deal fell through.

"Gretna was only six miles away from my home in Annan and they actually trained there so that was two other plus factors. Everything went so well at first, I was made captain and we won the Third Division Championship to gain promotion, but after that it all turned sour. I got injured, new players were brought in and with such a big squad I just couldn't get my place back--and there's nothing worse in football than not playing. By the turn of the year I wasn't even getting on the bench so come the January 'window' I felt it was time to move on again. Queens approached the club and the rest you know and I'm ecstatic to be back.

"It was like returning 'home' for most of the players I knew were still there--Jim Thomson, Eric Paton, Colin Scott, Del Lyle and so on--and even physio, Kenny Crichton, who's a real character. There's a new manager, however, Ian McCall, and he's done exceptionally well in the five months he's been here. Playing alongside experienced players like Jim Thomson and 'Archie' (Stuart Lovell) has helped my game. Since I came back we've lost only one game and conceded just four goals and I'm thoroughly enjoying it.

"The fans have been great and have welcomed me back with 'open arms', I feel like I've never been away. They've always been superb and I only hope I can repay them by retaining our place in the First Division."

Andy has always been a big favourite with the home support and, all being well, could make his 300th appearance for the club next season. Only 16 players in the past have reached that figure but Andy is still only 28, has signed through to May 2008, and could well make the big 400. And the way he's playing at the moment, let's hope he does. On Saturday he proved he's as popular as ever by winning the New Bazaar Doonhamer's 'Player of the Month', no doubt it will be the first of many.

Bill Goldie
Man of the Match 4th April 2006
Stuart Lovell features once again in the top three but this time he takes the top award. Second place goes to a rejuvenated Bowser and third to Andy Aitken.

The player of the season league table has been updated and all of the individual scores added to the latest match report. Thanks for voting.
Exclusive 3rd April 2006
In an exclusive interview with the website Andy Aitken reveals tomorrow why he left Queens, why he came back and his thoughts on Gretna reaching the Scottish Cup final.

Bill Goldie
Late winner for Queens 3rd April 2006
A double from Scott Robertson saw Queens beat Stenhousemuir in the Reserve League at Palmerston tonight. Ex-Queens favourite Joe McAlpine scored from a free-kick in ten minutes to put the visitors ahead but on the half hour mark Scott Robertson curled in a left foot shot for the equaliser. Queens were well on top in the second period and in the final ten minutes first Michael Mullen and then Sean O'Connor missed glaring chances but Scott Robertson spared their blushes two minutes from time whenn he finished off a good run by slotting home.

Good news for Queens fans - Sean O'Connor played for the full ninety minutes.

Bill Goldie
Soccersavings 3rd April 2006
Saturday's prize was £500 for existing Soccersavings account holders, £50 for non account holders. The lucky number is 26829. To claim the prize call 0800 612 8000 or email info@soccersavings.co.uk.

Margaret Heuchan
Man of the match 3rd April 2006
The result from the man of the match voting from Saturday will be published tomorrow evening.
Celebrations all round! 2nd April 2006

John O'Neill with his trophy for his 100th appearance in the recent home game against Clyde. Also in the picture is Steve Bowey who yesterday chalked up his 150th appearance for Queens, Derek Lyle who made his 100th appearance and Tommy Harkness who presented the trophy.

Bill Goldie
New Bazaar Quiz Night 2nd April 2006
The New Bazaar Doonhamers held a quiz night in their local hostelry last night and during a very successful evening close on £400 was raised for club funds. The quiz itself resulted in a 'dead-heat' between the All Stars and Penn-ites. Both teams scored 79% but the latter won by virtue of a 'tie-break' question.

The main raffle prize, an autographed Queens shirt was won by Gordon Rae, a life-long Queen of the South fan and a member of the New Bazaar Doonhamers and it was presented by club Chairman David Rae. Other prizes were won by the following--an autographed Queens' book, Cameron Smith, a member of the Russell Brown's Labour Party group who sponsored yesterday's match; an autographed match ball, Euan Kelly of Newbridge Labour Party; Collectors set of Q.O.S. memorabilia, Robert Purdie, chairman of the New Bazaar Doonhamers.

Their first ever 'Player of the Month' award went to Andy Aitken who held off a strong challenge from Jim Thomson and Stuart Lovell. It was good to see all three of Queen' new rearguard attending the event along with keeper, Richie Barnard and Gary Wood. Over the season the New Bazaar Doonhamers have raised over £1000 for club funds, a remarkable achievement for a membership of only 20.

Bill Goldie
Chairman's Message 2nd April 2006
A fortnight ago I stated in this column that the Stranraer fixture was 'a vital game for both clubs' and I was so pleased we managed a victory. The three points actually took us above them in the table but only for three days as they drew with Ross County on the Tuesday to go above us again--albeit only on goal average.

Last Saturday we defeated Hamilton 2-0 and that was our first ever win at New Douglas Park. I always felt that would be our hardest match in our last six so a victory was a real bonus, but it's just as well we did with Stranraer beating Brechin. I was up at Hamilton on Tuesday night to watch them play Stranraer in their outstanding league fixture and the result certainly went in our favour. We're now 'level pegging' going into the final five matches so it looks like being an exciting finale.

The attendance at our last home game against Stranraer was 2790, the highest of the season but, had it been a warmer day, I'm sure we would have topped the 3000 mark. So, if the sun shines this afternoon I'd love to see us break that barrier--it would really make my day. The support from the Main Stand at the 'local derby' was unbelievable--it's many a long year since I've heard it so noisy, but I'm not complaining.

The national 'No Smoking' ban in public places came into being on Sunday and it has been decided that there should be no smoking at all at Palmerston Park. Smoking was not allowed in the Main Stand owing to it's wooden structure but as from today the whole stadium will be a 'No Smoking' area.

Queen of the South and Careers Scotland have teamed up to help unemployed young people in the region. It focuses on football coaching and getting those concerned into employment and we, as a club, are delighted to be involved in this worthwhile venture.

Today we welcome Ross County back to Dumfries. They were the last team to beat us at Palmerston away back in November but without being disrespectful to our visitors we 'threw the game at them' that day. We led 2-1 but two late 'give away' goals saw us lose 3-2.

Since then our home results have improved dramatically with five wins and two draws in our last eight games, so it's little wonder that the fans are flocking back to Palmerston. Our match-day sponsor today is local M.P. Russell Brown who is a keen Queens' fan himself. We welcome him and his colleagues, all other sponsors in attendance and also the two young mascots. Hope you all enjoy the game.

David Rae

From Official Programme 1-04-06


Bill Goldie
Match reaction 1st April 2006
When the team with the best home record in recent weeks (Queens), meet the side with the best away record (Ross County), a draw was always on the cards and that's how it turned out with neither side finding the net. But with Stranraer losing at St Johnstone we now move a point ahead of them and that was one consolation.

Said manager Ian McCall after the match, "We knew Ross County were a good football playing side and had a great away record so I'm not too disappointed at the draw, however I thought that we had the better chances.. We were again sound in defence and that's only two goals we've conceded in our last eight home games. I was also pleased at the effort out there this afternoon - our lads are now prepared to 'die for the club'. Once again it was a good all round team effort but I didn't know whether to look at it as a point gained or two dropped. We were hit by a sickness bug at the club this week, myself, Kenny the physio, Ryan McStay and Weiry all suffered so I hope that disappears quickly." Paul Burns missed the game with a knee injury.

Said Ross County manager Gardner Speirs "It was not a great game but very competitive. Queens are fighting for their lives and that was so obvious today. That's five draws in five games we've had but I think a draw was a pretty fair result."

Attendance 1,630

Bill Goldie
F.A.O. Robert Payne 31st March 2006
Let's spare a thought for veteran Queens' fan Robert Payne who's hardy missed a home game this season. A fortnight ago he jetted off to South Africa for a two month's holiday so he's missing all the excitement now. Here's hoping you keep up with all the results in Johannesburg, Robert.

Bill Goldie
Reserve Fixture 31st March 2006
Queens will meet Stenhousemuir in a Reserve match at Palmerston on Monday night. Kick-off is at 7.30 pm. Admission as per usual.

Bill Goldie
Team News 30th March 2006
Ryan McStay is the only real worry for Saturday's match against Ross County. The midfielder wasn't at training tonight owing to a sickness bug and it will be a late decision whether he plays or not. But apart from that the news is all good. Willie Gibson trained this evening and it's hoped he'll be fit. Sean O'Connor is again in the squad and expected he'll feature at some stage of the game. Jim Thomson appears to have recovered from his head knock at Hamilton and is also expected to play. Jim has been an ever present since the CIS cup tie as Stirling back in August and the last thing he'll want is to miss a game with his 250th appearance due against St Johnstone in a fortnights time.

Bill Goldie
Shopping specials 30th March 2006
The Queen of the South Club Shop have some special offers available at the moment:

All replica tops - £20 (Only childrens sizes available)
Tracksuits - £45
Winter Jackets - £40
Rain Jackets - £30
Selection of sizes of Junior Blues T shirts from this season and last £2 each or 2 for £3.

Also the Club Shop is also offering a personalised Queen of the South mug with your choice of photograph on it for £10.

Call in at the Club Shop on Saturday.
JUNE 05 JULY 05 AUGUST 05 SEPTEMBER 05 OCTOBER 05 NOVEMBER 05
DECEMBER 05 JANUARY 06 FEBRUARY 06 MARCH 06 APRIL 06 MAY 06
CURRENT MONTH


[Back to Queens front page]